"Merry Christmas, Not Happy Festivus!"... December 23rd is the Strange Holiday Created by the Sitcom 'Seinfeld'

With Christmas just two days away today (23rd), fans of 'Seinfeld' around the world and those tired of the commercialization of Christmas bring out the 'Aluminum Pole' instead of a tree. This is because the strange and delightful holiday, 'Festivus', has returned.

On the 23rd (local time), local media such as ABC7 introduced today, December 23rd, as the day to celebrate Festivus, "A Festivus for the rest of us."

◆ A Holiday Born from a Doll Purchase Gone Wrong?

Festivus was first introduced to the public in the 1997 episode 'The Strike' of the legendary NBC sitcom 'Seinfeld'. It is depicted that Frank Costanza, George Costanza's father, created it after getting into a fistfight while shopping for a doll, feeling disillusioned with commercialization.

However, it actually originated from a real family tradition created by Dan O'Keefe's father, Daniel O'Keefe, in 1966. Writer Dan O'Keefe recalled, "I didn't want to put this bizarre holiday my father created on television, but I was eventually persuaded."

◆ Three Rules to Enjoy Festivus

To properly enjoy this holiday, one must follow very unique and strict rules.

1. The Aluminum Pole: Instead of a Christmas tree, an undecorated aluminum pole is erected. According to Frank Costanza, "Tinsel is distracting," and the pole must have "a very high strength-to-weight ratio."

2. Airing of Grievances: Right after dinner (usually meatloaf), family and friends must recount all the ways they have disappointed you over the past year. It starts with shouting, "I have a lot to say to you guys!"

3. Feats of Strength: The festival does not end until the head of the household wrestles someone chosen and pins them to the ground. Otherwise, Festivus is not over.

◆ A Festival of 'Anti-Festival' Continuing for Over 30 Years

What was thought to be just a joke in a sitcom has now become one of America's year-end cultural phenomena. Social media is flooded with posts today featuring the #Festivus hashtag, showcasing aluminum pole photos or sharing minor grievances with family.

For modern people wanting to escape the pressure of dazzling lights, carols, and gift exchanges, this simple and quirky holiday, shouting "Festivus Miracle," remains a valid refuge even in 2025.